Parts for your 2007 Subaru Tribeca-Gas struts

2007 Subaru Tribeca gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources confirm the 2007 Subaru Tribeca is fitted with gas‑charged lift supports (gas struts) on the rear tailgate. The Subaru workshop manual for MY2006–2007 (Body/Rear Gate section) details the “rear gate stay” units as gas‑charged supports, and Subaru’s FAST electronic parts catalogue lists the OE “Stay – Rear Gate” assemblies for this model. Major OE‑supplier catalogues also list rear lift supports for 2006–2014 Tribeca. The bonnet on this model uses a prop rod from factory, not gas struts.

On the Tribeca, the tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting. They counterbalance the weight of the rear door so it opens smoothly, stays up safely, and closes with a controlled, damped motion. When they’re healthy, there’s no shoulder workout to load the pram, groceries or camping gear — just an easy lift and steady hold.

Because gas struts are sealed, they slowly lose pressure with age and hard use. By the time a 2007 Tribeca is on the road, many original units are well past their best. Common signs they’re due include: the tailgate dropping or not staying up (especially in cold weather), needing extra effort to lift, a hiss with little resistance, or an oily film on the shaft. If one’s weak, the other won’t be far behind — they work as a pair.

• Replace in pairs to keep lift and balance even.
• Support the tailgate with a prop or a helper before you start.
• Most fittings use spring clips — gently pry the clip, slide the socket off, don’t fully remove the clip.
• Install with the shaft pointing down where applicable to keep the internal seal lubricated.
• Keep the chrome shafts clean, don’t grease them, as dirt will stick and chew out the seals.

There’s no strict service interval, but 5–10 years is typical life. Many owners choose to swap them as soon as the tailgate feels heavy or nips them on the head — a quick 15–30 minute job that makes daily use nicer and safer.

Chasing bonnet gas struts? From factory, the Tribeca bonnet uses a prop rod. Aftermarket bonnet‑strut kits exist, but they’re not OE and should be chosen carefully for fit and load rating.

Popular questions

Does the 2007 Subaru Tribeca have factory gas struts?

Yes — on the rear tailgate. The factory setup uses gas‑charged “rear gate stays” to hold the tailgate open and assist lifting. The bonnet, however, uses a manual prop rod rather than gas struts from new.

How long do Tribeca tailgate struts last, and should both be replaced?

Typically 5–10 years depending on use and climate. If one is weak, replace both at the same time. That keeps the lift even and prevents overloading a single new strut.

Can Tribeca gas struts be re‑gassed or should they be replaced?

They’re sealed units, so the standard practice is to replace rather than re‑gas. Avoid clamping the shaft or adding grease — that can damage seals and shorten life. Quality replacements are inexpensive and restore smooth, safe operation.